Northern Ireland interactive companies target global growth at Gamescom 2025
Date Posted: August 22, 2025
Northern Ireland Screen is supporting eight local interactive companies at Gamescom 2025, one of the world’s largest video game trade fairs, taking place this August in Cologne, Germany. Gamescom attracts over 335,000 visitors from 122 countries, offering an unmatched opportunity for Northern Ireland interactive companies to connect with global partners and audiences.
Three companies; Blackstaff Games, Slap Bang! Digital, and Outlier Games — will exhibit their titles in the B2C Indie Arena Booth, showcasing their work directly to gaming consumers. All eight companies will also take advantage of the UKIE B2B arena, providing a valuable platform for business networking and partnership opportunities with publishers, investors, and international studios.
Andrew Reid, Chief Content Officer at Northern Ireland Screen, said: “We are proud to support these ambitious companies as they take their games to a global marketplace. Gamescom offers a unique opportunity for Northern Ireland developers to build international connections, attract investment, and showcase the creativity and talent coming from our region. This presence is a vital step in growing our games sector and driving long-term economic impact.”
Studios Attending Gamescom 2025
- Blackstaff Games with game Travel Pack
A family-friendly game inspired by tabletop board games, featuring both digital and physical prototypes for player-driven design.
- It Can You Eat It? with game DeTails
A chaotic, narrative-driven punk adventure following a teenage band on tour. Themes of rebellion, friendship, and coming-of-age are brought to life with vibrant design and gameplay.
- Cupboard Games with game Project Rushport
- Iron Gekko with game Operation ADESSA
A first-person horror extraction game where players explore anomalous zones filled with unpredictable threats. Developed by a tight-knit indie team, Iron Gekko aims to balance tension with player-driven fun.
- Mad Moon Studios with game SOL DRIFT
A high-octane aerial combat game combining arena shooter mechanics with expressive, fast-paced movement and roguelike progression.
- Outlier Games with game Mars Attracts
A darkly comedic park management sim set in the Mars Attacks™ universe, blending abduction, experimentation, and business strategy.
- Outsider Games with game Tax Force
A comic-book-inspired action game where players hunt down mutant billionaires and reinvest tax funds into public services. Offers biting satire on economic systems with a bold visual style.
- Slap Bang! Digital with game Smash ‘N Grab
A destructive beat-’em-up where two anti-heroes tear through a mob empire in a visually striking, comic-style world.
Northern Ireland Screen’s presence at Gamescom is part of a wider strategy to grow the local game development ecosystem by fostering international trade, talent development, and industry visibility.
